Tomato and Herbed Ricotta Salata Salad: A Taste of Summer

The scent of ripe tomatoes mingling with fresh herbs always takes me back to my grandmother’s garden in Italy. She grew the most incredible San Marzano tomatoes, their sweetness intensified by the Tuscan sun. Every summer, she would make a simple yet unforgettable salad with them, crumbled ricotta salata, and fragrant herbs picked straight from her garden. This recipe is my homage to those cherished memories, a celebration of simple, fresh ingredients coming together in perfect harmony.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Yield: 6 servings
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• ½ lb ricotta salata
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint
• 1 teaspoon chopped fresh oregano
• 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
• 5 large ripe tomatoes, cut into ¼-inch slices
• ½ lb cherry tomatoes, halved (various colors)
• Coarse salt, to taste
• Fresh ground black pepper, to taste
• 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• Fresh oregano or fresh thyme sprig, for a garnish

Equipment Needed

• Serving platter
• Small mixing bowl
• Whisk

Instructions

1. Begin by preparing the herbed ricotta salata. In a bowl, gently crumble the ricotta salata into small pieces.
2. Add the fresh herbs: basil, chives, mint, oregano, and thyme to the bowl with the crumbled cheese.
3. Mix the cheese and herbs together until the herbs are evenly distributed and coat the cheese. Be gentle to avoid turning the cheese into a paste.
4. Next, arrange the sliced tomatoes on a serving platter. Slightly overlap the tomato slices to create an attractive presentation.
5. Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes over the sliced tomatoes. Use a mix of colors for visual appeal.
6. Season the tomatoes generously with coarse salt and freshly ground black pepper. The salt will help draw out the tomatoes’ natural sweetness.
7. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar. This will create the vinaigrette.
8. Season the vinaigrette to taste with salt and pepper. Adjust the ratio of oil to vinegar according to your preference.
9. Drizzle the vinaigrette evenly over the tomatoes.
10. Allow the salad to sit for about 10 minutes. This allows the tomatoes to marinate slightly in the vinaigrette, enhancing their flavor.
11. To serve, scatter the herbed ricotta salata over the tomatoes.
12. Garnish with fresh oregano or thyme sprigs for a final touch of freshness.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Cheese Matters: The quality of your ricotta salata will greatly impact the flavor of the salad. Seek out a high-quality, dry-cured ricotta salata for the best results. If you can’t find it, feta cheese is a decent, although saltier, substitute.
• Tomato Selection: Use a variety of tomatoes for both flavor and visual appeal. Heirloom tomatoes, with their unique shapes and colors, make a stunning addition.
• Herb Power: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herb combinations. A touch of tarragon or dill can add a surprising and delightful twist.
• Make-Ahead Magic: You can prepare the herbed ricotta salata and the vinaigrette ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Assemble the salad just before serving to prevent the tomatoes from becoming soggy.
• Vinaigrette Variations: For a sweeter vinaigrette, add a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• Fixing a Salty Situation: If you accidentally oversalt the tomatoes, add a squeeze of lemon juice to balance the flavors.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This Tomato and Herbed Ricotta Salata Salad is best served immediately after assembly. The tomatoes are at their freshest and the cheese is at its most flavorful. Arrange the salad on a beautiful platter and serve it as a light lunch, a vibrant appetizer, or a side dish to grilled meats or fish.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, the tomatoes will release moisture, which may affect the texture and flavor of the salad. It is best to eat it fresh. Freezing is not recommended.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	115.7 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	84 g	73%
Total Fat	9.4 g	14%
Saturated Fat	1.3 g	6%
Cholesterol	0 mg	0%
Sodium	10.1 mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate	7.8 g	2%
Dietary Fiber	2.5 g	10%
Sugars	5 g	N/A
Protein	1.8 g	3%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

• Vegan Option: Substitute the ricotta salata with a plant-based feta alternative or a homemade cashew ricotta.
• Seasonal Swap: In the winter, replace the fresh tomatoes with roasted butternut squash or sweet potatoes.
• Citrus Twist: Add a squeeze of lemon or orange juice to the vinaigrette for a bright citrus flavor.
• Mediterranean Flair: Incorporate Kalamata olives, capers, and sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean-inspired salad.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil for a spicy kick.
• Herb Garden Bounty: Use whatever fresh herbs you have available in your garden. Parsley, chervil, and lovage are all excellent additions.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh herbs?
A: While fresh herbs are preferred for their vibrant flavor and aroma, you can substitute dried herbs. Use about one-third the amount of dried herbs as you would fresh herbs.

Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: It’s best to assemble the salad just before serving to prevent the tomatoes from becoming soggy. You can prepare the herbed ricotta salata and the vinaigrette ahead of time and store them separately.

Q: What if I can’t find ricotta salata?
A: Feta cheese is a decent substitute for ricotta salata. However, feta is saltier, so adjust the amount of salt in the vinaigrette accordingly.

Q: How long will the leftovers last?
A: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, the tomatoes will release moisture, which may affect the texture and flavor of the salad.

Q: Can I grill the tomatoes for added flavor?
A: Yes, grilling the tomatoes adds a delicious smoky flavor. Grill the tomato slices briefly before assembling the salad.

Final Thoughts

This Tomato and Herbed Ricotta Salata Salad is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to savor the simple pleasures of fresh, seasonal ingredients. I hope this dish brings as much joy to your table as it does to mine. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs and variations to make it your own. Let me know what you think – I’d love to hear your feedback and see your creations! Perhaps you’ll pair it with a crisp glass of Pinot Grigio or alongside some grilled chicken for a complete summer meal. Buon appetito!